wheatworm

noun

: a small nematode worm (Anguina tritici) that is parasitic on wheat, oats, and other grasses, that invades the plant at the leaf axil as a larva where it induces stunting and distortion of leaves, and that subsequently passes to the inflorescence and causes the seeds to be replaced by galls in which the larva matures and produces a new generation of larvae to be distributed in the soil when the gall is shed and decays

called also wheat eel

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now